Israel's war on Gaza leaves future of Palestinian university students and graduates in limbo

As students around the world go back to school after the summer break, the dream of education remains a distant dream for Palestinians in Gaza.

Israel's war has not only shattered the dreams of schoolchildren but also disrupted the lives of university students who have missed out on experiencing one of the most important events in their education history — graduation. 

Their futures are now in limbo.

“The war has affected my studies so profoundly that I've almost forgotten everything,” says 22-year-old Dalal Elswerky, a senior English-French and literature student at Al-Azhar University — now largely destroyed after Israeli strikes.

Dalal reflects on the immense difficulties she endured. “When my family and I were forcibly displaced to the south, I didn't have the chance to take my books with me. They were all left at home and burned. They're gone now," she recounts.

More than 41,020 Palestinians have been killed and 94,925 have been injured in Israel's military offensive in Gaza since October 7, the Gaza health ministry said in a statement on Tuesday. 

“I feel an overwhelming sadness for myself and a fear of forgetting everything I've learned. Every night in the tent, I have conversations with my father about what I am supposed to be doing at this time. I should have finished my final exams and be preparing to graduate. I keep telling him how deeply I miss my university, my professors, my lectures, and the gatherings with my friends and colleagues,” Dalal continues.

“I used to worry about whether to work or pursue a master's degree immediately after graduation. Now, my concerns are about the war, death, and the potential loss of my family, she tells The New Arab.

"Everything feels different now; even the university, which was such a significant part of my life, is no longer there, I can't imagine it's all gone now. This is another level of sorrow.” 

Since Israel's war started on October 7, all universities in Gaza have either been damaged or destroyed.

“This was supposed to be my graduation year. I wasn’t sure whether to participate in the graduation ceremony or not. But now, I desperately want to take part. I long for the moment when they call my name and my family can be proud of me," Dalal adds.

“Despite everything, I am deeply grateful. I constantly remind myself that many promising individuals and friends have been killed and have become martyrs. I am fortunate to be alive with my family, and I am ready to start from scratch again. I am determined to achieve my dreams and aspirations one day,” she concludes.

According to the Euro-Med Human Rights Monitor Monitor, the Israeli war on Gaza has halted education at all universities and colleges, with five out of six universities being completely or partially destroyed. Three university presidents and over 95 deans and lecturers, including 68 professors have been killed. Around 88,000 students have been unable to continue their studies, while 555 students have missed scholarships abroad. 

Dr Akram Wadi, the Dean of the Faculty of Education at Al-Aqsa University, reflects on the devastating impact of the ongoing war on university life.

"When we speak of university life, it is almost impossible not to acknowledge that the Israeli war has nearly destroyed it entirely, extinguishing the hopes and dreams of many students," Dr Akram tells The New Arab, emphasising the gravity of the situation.

"There is no doubt that among the killed are university professors, esteemed scholars, intellectuals, and the educated. The educational life has come to a complete halt due to the genocide being perpetrated by Israel," he adds. 

“Just last October, we were celebrating the graduation of students, marking their achievements with joy. Many students had successfully graduated but now Israel has obliterated the future of these students, shattering their joy, and plunging countless Palestinian homes into sorrow and grief,” he laments.

Another university student, Muhannad recalls the excitement that once filled his days as he approached graduation.

“Every day, I counted down the moments, eagerly awaiting the day I could finally graduate, hold my certificate in my hands, and take the first steps toward building the future I had long dreamed of," he tells The New Arab. 

“It was the key to unlocking a world of job opportunities and scholarships that I had worked so hard to reach. But the relentless attacks and instability in Gaza have overshadowed what should have been the happiest time of my life.” 

Despite the overwhelming challenges, Dr Akram has expressed hope for the future.

"We hope that this war and destruction will end and that life in Gaza will return to its true essence," he says.

Speaking with sincere admiration of all students, he notes, “Our students possess a remarkable ability to overcome even the most challenging circumstances. They are resilient, generous, and determined people who seek to live life in its fullest form.”

Hadil Wadi is a Gaza-based freelance journalist and creative content writer

Follow her on Instagram: @hadil.wadi